Theology (THEO)

Introduces theology as an authentic science. Assuming no previous theological background, the class explores the nature of divine revelation and salvation history in light of Scripture, along with fundamental Christian beliefs concerning Christ, the Church, and the Christian Life. The primary goal of this course is to produce awareness and understanding of the Christian faith, as well as some basic skills needed for future course work and investigation of faith and religion.

Surveys the history of Israel and of the formation of the Old Testament, making available the results of modern Old Testament scholarship, and putting the books of the Old Testament into the context of the community of faith from which they came.

Explores the issues related to living a Christian life in our contemporary world. Much of western culture is influenced by the Christian tradition, but today there are many cultural forces that make it difficult to live a Christian life in the West. The course is designed to examine how a Christian might respond to contemporary ideological forces and developments in science and technology that call traditional beliefs into question. Special attention will be given to the Roman Catholic/Franciscan tradition.

Surveys the content, structure, and sociopolitical milieu of the various books of the New Testament in the context of the experience of the Early Church. It aims at providing an understanding of the kerygmatic dynamism within the early Church.

Is a course on the philosophy and theology of St. Francis and St. Clare and the intellectual, spiritual, and ministerial tradition they founded. Course topics include the historical and contemporary Franciscan contributions to theology, philosophy, aesthetics, and ministry. The course is designed to actively engages the students in applying the basic academic skills required of USF students: reading, writing, and dialogue and critical thinking.

In this course, we will explore various facets of the Franciscan tradition through discussion on key aspects of the life of Francis of Assisi. In doing so, we will complement our discussion with tenets of spiritual leadership, identifying the ways in which Francis & Clare’s leadership have impacted generations in life’s transforming journey.

Surveys the main events and persons of the Christian Tradition, and explores various elements in the Church's self-understanding from the New Testament to the post-Vatican II era. Emphasis on theological and doctrinal history will encourage students to understand the foundations of current Christian living.

Studies contemporary moral issues and topics, including commitment, responsibility and quality of life of individuals and communities. Selected areas of concern may include the family, business, medicine, law, and religion.

Investigates the development and traditions of marriage as well as questions about it, particularly among Christians. It will explore the commitment of persons involved in living a Christian marriage.

Examines the social teaching of the Church as it comes to us through Scripture, papal and episcopal documents and the writings of prominent Catholic and other Christian social thinkers. Attention will be given to the spiritual and temporal mission of the laity. Areas for discussion may include: the dignity of the human person, human work, family, religious liberty, justice, economic development, and international relations.

Examines the nature, structure, diversity, and meaning of worship as it is found within the Christian faith. Worship is the central act of the faith through which the life of believers are shaped in their faith. Within the Christian tradition, the forms of worship have often changed to suit the needs of the time. In the other instance, the liturgical life has remained faithful to its ancient roots providing unity and continuity for the life of faith. In this course special attention will be given to the sacraments.

Employs a historical perspective in examining the major religious traditions as well as specifically American religious phenomena such as Revivalism. The study of American history requires a consideration of the uniquely religious character of the American experience and of the unique collective experiences of the varied institutional religions and religious movements in America.

Studies the history, systems of belief, unique characteristics and practices of the major world religions: Judaism, Christianity, Buddhism, Taoism, and Islam.

Is a title given to a course which covers broad themes, practices, and subject content not currently offered in the curriculum. This course is directed primarily at non-majors and may be used for general education where approved.

Investigates the event (1962-1965) that renewed contemporary Roman Catholicism. Consideration of key persons, documents, and controversies will illuminate the background necessary for understanding the challenges facing Catholicism today.

Meets the liberal education requirements for either philosophy or theology. It is able to do this since it touches upon those basic issues at the heart of these disciplines. The course will focus on the relationship of reason and revelation. It is precisely in an examination of this issue that the unique natures of philosophy and theology become evident. Questions concerning the nature of faith, the intelligibility of reality, nature and creation, the nature of God and the relationship between man and God will be examined. These questions are foundational to the understanding of human existence both from a theological and philosophical perspective.

Illustrates and explores the unique experiences of the various churches, religious movements, and religious-philosophical movements within the United States. It further examines the unique character of the American religious experience and America's pluralistic religious traditions.

Addresses various issues and theologies relating to lay ministry in the parish/school/campus setting. Topics may include such areas as youth ministry, liturgical planning, organizational skills, team building, and finances in non-profit organizations.

Explores the experience of suffering, death, and dying from the perspective of Christian anthropology. Modern technology has added complexity to the ethical decisions which the dying person and the family must face. This complexity will be addressed in light of recent Christian thinking on these issues. From a pastoral/spiritual point of view, the Church as Community and Sacrament will be examined as a means of divine and gracious comfort for the dying person and the family and friends, as well as a sign of hope through Christian belief in the Paschal Mystery.

Studies the issues and theologies which shape contemporary catechetical ministries as well as the psychology of religious learning. Students will do some form of catechetical ministry to be determined in consultation with the instructor. (Consent of instructor required)

Discovers the meaning of Jesus for Christianity by means of a selective review of theological traditions and fundamental doctrines. The course will consider various biblical, historical, philosophical and social/scientific contributions to a contemporary understanding of Jesus.

Offers each senior major, under the direction of the faculty advisor, the opportunity to research a topic agreed upon and approved by the theology department. Following a schedule contracted with his/her advisor, the student will complete this requirement by formally and publicly presenting his/her research to faculty and students in theology and other invited guests.

Is a title given to a course which covers specific themes, practices, and subject content not currently offered in the curriculum. This course is directed primarily to student majoring in the subject area and could be used to complete major requirements. The course will provide an in-depth study of a specific topic.

This course is an academic learning experience designed by the instructor. The student must have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

Offers students the opportunity to use what they have learned in the classroom in a supervised setting, as determined in conjunction with their mentor. They will keep a journal and meet regularly with supervisor/advisor.